Clamp and repair tool

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

0001This application is a Non-Provisional patent application of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/498,612, filed on Aug. 28, 2003, the entire subject matters of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

0002The present invention relates to tools, including clamping, holding and gripping type tools. More specifically, the present invention relates to clamping, holding and gripping type tools, including such tools adapted to apply a treatment to a workpiece. In some embodiments, the treatment may be selected as suitable for the workpiece to be held, clamped or gripped and for the effect sought.

0003Various circumstances require a clamping tool. Repair, joining or sealing conduits, pipes and the like or other workpieces may be facilitated by clamping. Often, it is advantageous to pinch or otherwise block piping through which fluid is moving. For example, a utility crew may expose a portion of a natural gas line to perform maintenance or some other type of work. The utility crew cannot access the pipe without controlling the flow of the fluid, yet it may be difficult and disruptive to cease flow to that entire line. Thus, a clamp is often used to pinch the pipe or otherwise block the piping to stop fluid flow from that point forward.

0004Alternatively, a clamping tool may be used to clamp a pipe or conduit and apply a treatment thereto, without disturbing the flow of the fluid through the pipe or conduit.

0005A number of tools have been created to address these tasks. Some of the difficulties common to these tools include positioning of the tool around the pipe within a confined area, clamping the pipe without expelling it from the tool, providing a configuration offering sufficient force to compress the pipe, and providing a treatment to the pipe. These difficulties act individually and collectively to make it more difficult to use a clamping tool to secure a pipe or conduit and stop fluid flow through the pipe or conduit.

0006Generally, when securing a pipe to stop fluid flow through the pipe, only a small area is provided to work in. For example, a trench may be dug through the ground to reveal a small segment of the pipe. This can make it difficult to access the pipe, to reach the pipe (it may be several feet below ground level), and to engage the pipe with a tool. Because of the generally cylindrical shape of pipes, the strength of pipes, and the typical “scissoring” (i.e., angled closing) effect of clamping tools, pipes often become expelled from the clamping tool as the tool is actuated. That is, the pipe may not be easy to compress and, as the tool closes, the angled closing may cause the tool to disengage rather than clamping the pipe.

0007The small workspace, the resistance of the pipe to clamping, and the depth of the pipe in the ground make it difficult to provide a tool that an operator can use to develop sufficient force to apply a treatment to a pipe or to stop fluid flow through the pipe. Traditionally, when manually operated tools are needed to exert a greater force, a longer lever arm is provided. However, such a solution, in this context, is impractical for the reasons previously noted.

0008In some applications, it would be helpful if a radially directed force could be applied substantially completely and uniformly around a workpiece using a clamping or gripping type tool. This is difficult with a traditional scissor type jaw movement, or with clamp type tools having the typical generally flat jaw surfaces.

0009Thus, there exists a need to provide an improved clamping tool.

SUMMARY

0010A tool for gripping, clamping or holding an object, wherein the tool has a handle portion, a linkage portion and a working portion, and wherein the working portion includes two workpiece contacting surfaces, at least one of the surfaces being shaped to generally conform to at least a portion of the outer surface of a workpiece to be clamped, gripped or held. In some embodiments, at least one of the workpiece contacting surfaces is adapted to provide a treatment to a workpiece being clamped, gripped or held. For example, in some embodiments, a chemical may be applied to at least a portion of the workpiece while it is being held in the tool. In some embodiments, a collar, patch or other structure may be all or part of the treatment.

0011In one embodiment, the present invention provides a tool for gripping, clamping or holding an object, wherein the tool comprises a handle portion, a linkage portion and a working portion, and wherein the working portion comprises two workpiece contacting surfaces wherein the surfaces are shaped to generally conform to the outer surface of a workpiece to be clamped, gripped or held therein. In some embodiments, the workpiece contacting surfaces are adapted to provide a treatment to a workpiece being clamped, gripped or held. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the jaws remains generally parallel throughout the operation of the tool, and/or shaped portions of the jaws are generally reflective as the tool is operated.

0012In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a tool such as disclosed in a pending international application entitled “Clamping Tool”, Int'l. Appln. No.: PCT/US02/16490, filed 23 May 2002, the disclosure of which application is incorporated herein by reference.

0013In one embodiment, the present invention provides a tool for gripping and/or clamping and/or holding an object, wherein the tool comprises a handle portion, a linkage portion and a working portion, and wherein the working portion comprises a double jaw design with two pivot pins per jaw. In use, the jaws generally remain parallel throughout the operation of the tool and move generally axially from a tube portion. When open, the jaws are spaced generally axially away from the remainder of the tool. The first jaw and second jaw are moveable towards one another. The first jaw and the second jaw each have a workpiece contacting surface that remains generally parallel to the other.

0014In one embodiment, the present invention is a tool comprising a clamp assembly having an opening; a first jaw coupled to the clamp assembly with a first four bar linkage, the first jaw being moveable within the opening; a second jaw being coupled to the clamp with a second four bar linkage, the second jaw being moveable within the opening; a first link being coupled between an actuating member and the first jaw; a second link being coupled between the actuating member and the second jaw, wherein selective actuation of the actuating member causes the first and the second link to move the first and the second jaw respectively, between an open and a closed position, wherein the first and the second jaws remain generally parallel to one another. Either or both of the first jaw and the second jaw may be provided with a workpiece contacting surface. If provided on both the first and the second jaw, the workpiece contacting surface remain generally parallel to the other.

0015In one embodiment, the present invention is a pipe clamping tool comprising a clamp assembly; a tube extending from the clamp assembly; a handle rotatably coupled with the tube; a first jaw coupled with the clamp assembly; a second jaw coupled with the clamp assembly, wherein rotational movement of the handle causes the first jaw to move towards the second jaw, while the first jaw and the second jaw remain generally parallel to one another. Either or both of the first jaw and the second jaw may be provided with a workpiece contacting surface. If provided on both the first and the second jaw, the workpiece contacting surface remain generally parallel to the other.

0016In one embodiment, the present invention is a pipe clamping tool comprising an extension tube; a threaded rod located within the extension tube and linearly moveable therein; a jaw base coupled to a first end of the threaded rod; a first jaw; a second jaw; and a linkage assembly coupled to the first jaw, the second jaw, the jaw base and the extension tube so that actuation of the threaded rod causes the first jaw to move towards the second jaw while the first jaw and the second jaw remain parallel to one another. Either or both of the first jaw and the second jaw may be provided with a workpiece contacting surface. If provided on both the first and the second jaw, the workpiece contacting surface remain generally parallel to the other.

0017In some embodiments, the working portion of the tool is adapted to contact a workpiece, for example, a tube or pipe, substantially completely around its outer diameter, and to apply a selected treatment to the workpiece. In some embodiments, a selected treatment applied by the tool to the workpiece may be chemical, thermochemical, electrical, or other suitable treatment or process. The treatment applied may be designed to have any desired effect on a workpiece, e.g., heating, melting, joining, patching, sealing, severing, compressing, deposition of a like or different material, etc.

0018In one embodiment, the present invention is a tool comprising a first jaw; a second jaw, wherein at least a portion of the first jaw and the second jaw are moveable towards one another while at least a portion of the jaws remains generally parallel, and wherein at least a portion of the jaws is configured to generally complement the shape of an intended workpiece. In some embodiments, at least one of the jaws of the tool of the present invention is adapted to apply a selected treatment to at least a portion of a workpiece.

0019While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description. As will be apparent, the invention is capable of modifications in various obvious aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the accompanying drawings and this description are to be regarded as illustrative, not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0020<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a perspective view of a clamping assembly of a clamping tool in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention in an open position.

0021<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a perspective view of a clamping assembly of a clamping tool in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention in an open position being used in a narrow access.

0022<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a perspective view of a clamping assembly of a clamping tool in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention in a closed position.

0023<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a perspective view of a clamping assembly of a clamping tool in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention in a closed position being used in a narrow access.

0024<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a perspective view of a clamping assembly of a clamping tool in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention in a closed position.

0025<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>a </i>is a perspective view of a workpiece with an irregular outer diameter.

0026<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>b </i>is a perspective view of a workpiece comprising two sections, the workpiece having a ridge between the sections.

0027<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref><i>a </i>is a perspective view of a workpiece having a gash in the surface thereof.

0028<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref><i>b </i>is a perspective view of a workpiece having a gash in the surface thereof.

0029<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref><i>a </i>is a perspective view of a workpiece with a patched section placed on the surface thereof in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

0030<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref><i>b </i>is a perspective view of a workpiece with a patched section placed on the surface thereof in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

0031<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref><i>c </i>is a cross-sectional view of a workpiece with a patched section placed on the surface thereof, sealing a gash in the surface of the workpiece, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

0032<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> illustrates a movable jaw provided with a treatment structure in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

0033<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> illustrates a sectional view of a clamping assembly of a clamping tool in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention in an open position.

0034<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> illustrates a schematic view of a handle assembly with a threaded rod in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

0035With regard to fastening, mounting, attaching or connecting components of the present invention to form a tool as a whole, unless specifically described otherwise, such are intended to encompass conventional fasteners such as threaded connectors, snap rings, detent arrangements, rivets, toggles, pins, and the like. Components may also be connected by adhesives, glues, welding, ultrasonic welding, and friction fitting or deformation, if appropriate. In embodiments wherein electricity is involved, for example for electrical heating of a workpiece, suitable connections may be provided, along with a suitable power source or connectors for connecting to a power source. Unless specifically otherwise disclosed or taught, materials for making components of the present invention may be selected from appropriate materials such as metal, metallic alloys, vinyls, plastics and the like, and appropriate manufacturing or production methods including casting, pressing, extruding, molding and machining may be used.

0036Any references to front and back, right and left, top and bottom and upper and lower are intended for convenience of description, not to limit the present invention or its components to any one positional or spatial orientation.

0037The accompanying Figures illustrate a clamping tool including a clamping assembly coupled with a handle. The handle may be permanently coupled to the assembly or may be removable, and it may have a selected length.

0038<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> illustrates a clamping tool <b>10</b>. The clamping tool <b>10</b> includes a clamping assembly <b>12</b> coupled with an extension tube <b>14</b>. A handle <b>16</b> is rotatably coupled to the extension tube <b>14</b>. In use, the handle <b>16</b> is rotated in one direction to cause the clamping assembly <b>12</b> to open and is rotated in the opposite direction to cause the clamping assembly <b>12</b> to close. Alternate handle configurations may be used in accordance with the present invention. That is, it is not necessary that the handle be rotatable. For example, the handle may be a push handle or a lever handle. As shown, the clamping assembly <b>12</b> is in an open position. The handle <b>16</b> may be permanently coupled with the extension tube <b>14</b> or may be removable. In one embodiment, extension tube <b>14</b> includes a standard sized bolt head so that a socket driver and socket can be use as the handle <b>16</b>. Thus, different lengths of the handle <b>16</b> or extension tube <b>14</b> can be utilized depending upon the amount of force that will be required or the distances involved (e.g., the depth of a trench). As shown, the clamping tool <b>10</b> is positioned to apply a treatment <b>17</b> to a workpiece <b>19</b>, the workpiece <b>19</b> having a gash <b>21</b> in the surface thereof.

0039<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> illustrates the clamping tool <b>10</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, also in a closed position, in use in a narrow space.

0040As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>, the clamp assembly <b>12</b> includes a clamp base <b>18</b>. The clamp base <b>18</b> is a rigid structural element having a clamp base opening <b>15</b> defined therein. A pair of moveable jaws are defined by first movable jaw <b>20</b> and a second movable jaw <b>22</b>. In an alternate embodiment, a single movable jaw may be provided parallel to a relatively stationary structure or a movable structure formed as, for example, a block. As shown, the opposing moveable jaws <b>20</b> and <b>22</b> remain parallel to one another when opening and closing. This prevents the clamped working piece from sliding out of or away from the jaws. In addition, it becomes easier to clamp the pipe because the jaws <b>20</b>, <b>22</b> are positioned on opposite sides of the pipe and the force is applied to the pipe in a direction that is generally normal to the abutting surfaces of the jaws <b>20</b>, <b>22</b>. Portions of the first and second movable jaws <b>20</b> and <b>22</b> may be designed to be reflective during use.

0041One or both of the first and second jaws <b>20</b> and <b>22</b> may be provided with a moveable jaw portion for accommodating workpieces of various sizes.

0042Each of the first and second jaws <b>20</b> and <b>22</b> include a working surface <b>21</b> and <b>23</b> for contacting the workpiece <b>19</b>. As shown, the first and second movable jaws <b>22</b> may be configured to conform to the workpiece <b>19</b>. Thus, as shown, the working surfaces <b>21</b> and <b>23</b> together form a generally cylindrical shape for grasping a workpiece <b>19</b> such as a pipe.

0043In some embodiments, a plurality of interchangeable workpiece contacting surface members may be provided with the clamping tool <b>10</b>, wherein a member or members fitting or conforming to a workpiece may be selected from the set and removeably connected to the tool <b>10</b>. Thus, while generally cylindrical workpiece contacting surface members are shown, alternative shapes may be provided.

0044To cause the jaws to remain parallel, a “four bar linkage” may be utilized. Of course, any other suitable linkage may be utilized. The first movable jaw <b>20</b> forms one bar of the four bar linkage, and is pivotably coupled to the clamp base <b>18</b> by a top link <b>30</b> and a bottom link <b>32</b>, forming two more bars of the four bar linkage. Though not clearly shown, another top link <b>31</b> and another bottom link <b>33</b> couple the first movable jaw <b>20</b> to the clamp base <b>18</b> and are located behind the assembly, as illustrated. Thus, the two top links <b>30</b>, <b>31</b> form one “bar” of the “four bar linkage” and the two bottom links <b>32</b>, <b>33</b> form another “bar” of the “four bar linkage.” The fourth bar is formed by a portion of the clamp base <b>18</b>, and is denoted as the base link <b>34</b>.

0045Like the first movable jaw <b>20</b>, the second movable jaw <b>22</b> is coupled to the clamp base <b>18</b> through a four bar linkage. Top links <b>24</b>, <b>25</b> and bottom links <b>26</b>, <b>27</b> are provided along with base link <b>28</b> to form the four bar linkage with second movable jaw <b>22</b>.

0046While as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>, the movable jaws <b>20</b> and <b>22</b> are generally parallel to one another, portions of the jaws may not be parallel to each other and the workpiece contacting surfaces thereof may be parallel or move toward and away from each other in a generally straight line. In addition, the workpiece contacting surfaces may be parallel at all times or may only be parallel over a portion of their path of travel, which would include contact with the outer surface of a workpiece, e.g., a pipe, and compression of the workpiece.

0047As shown, a top surface <b>29</b> of each of the first and second jaws <b>20</b> and <b>22</b> contact one another. In both the open position and the closed position (seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3 through 5</figref>), the top surface <b>29</b> of each of the first and second jaws <b>20</b> and <b>22</b> contact one another to form an extension between the first and second jaws <b>20</b> and <b>22</b>. Thus, the tool <b>10</b> can be set down on top of or around a pipe in a relatively confined space. The congruent top surfaces <b>29</b> keep the pipe positioned between the jaws <b>20</b>, <b>22</b>, and in some embodiments centered between the jaws <b>20</b>, <b>22</b>. The congruent top surfaces <b>29</b> and the shaped working surfaces <b>21</b>, <b>23</b> together and independently keep the pipe positioned. The pipe generally extends in an axial direction between the jaws <b>20</b>, <b>22</b>. The clamping tool <b>10</b> is brought into position in a direction normal to the pipes axial length. The congruent top surfaces <b>23</b> aid in keeping the pipe properly positioned and the arrangement of the jaws <b>20</b>, <b>22</b> generally prevent the tool from moving off of the pipe and prevent the pipe from moving out of the jaws <b>20</b>, <b>22</b> in cases where such movement might be possible.

0048To close the jaws, adjusting links <b>44</b>, <b>46</b> are retracted into clamp base <b>18</b>. As this occurs, the first movable jaw <b>20</b> and the second movable jaw <b>22</b> are raised. Because of the pivoting top links <b>30</b>, <b>31</b>, <b>24</b>, <b>25</b> and the pivoting bottom links <b>32</b>, <b>33</b>, <b>26</b>, <b>27</b>, the first movable jaw <b>20</b> and the second movable jaw <b>22</b> move towards one another, while remaining generally parallel to one another. To open the jaws, the process is reversed. That is, the adjusting links <b>44</b>, <b>46</b> are extended out of the clamp base <b>18</b>. This causes the jaws <b>20</b>, <b>22</b> to move in a direction away from extension tube <b>14</b> and to separate from one another, while still remaining generally parallel. Again, it is not necessary that the tool be configured such that the jaws <b>20</b>, <b>22</b> remain constantly parallel to one another.

0049<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> illustrates a clamp assembly <b>12</b> with the clamping tool <b>10</b> being put into a closed position around a workpiece <b>19</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> illustrates the clamp assembly with the clamping tool <b>10</b> being put in a closed position around a workpiece <b>19</b> being used in a narrow space.

0050<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> illustrates a clamp assembly <b>12</b> with the clamping tool <b>10</b> in a closed position around a workpiece <b>19</b>. First and second wires extend to the top surfaces <b>23</b> of the first and second movable jaws <b>20</b> and <b>22</b>. Wires <b>74</b>, to be described in more detail below, are coupled to the movable jaws <b>20</b>, <b>22</b>.

0051As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 through 5</figref>, the clamping tool <b>10</b> may be configured such that the working portion of the tool is adapted to contact a workpiece, for example, a tube or pipe, substantially completely around its outer diameter, and to apply a selected treatment to the workpiece.

0052<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6</figref><i>a </i>and <b>6</b><i>b </i>illustrated a workpiece <b>19</b> formed of two sections. The sections are joined at ridge <b>77</b>. Additionally, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>a </i>illustrates a workpiece <b>19</b> having an irregularly shaped outer diameter <b>79</b>. A clamping tool <b>10</b> such as described with reference <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> may be used to clamp workpieces <b>19</b> having ridges <b>77</b> and/or irregularly shaped outer diameters <b>79</b>. The working surfaces <b>21</b>, <b>23</b> may be configured to generally conform to a cylindrical shape of a workpiece and the ridge <b>77</b> does not overly deflect the tool <b>10</b> from clamping the workpiece <b>10</b>. Further, as will be described in more detail below, the tool <b>10</b> may apply a treatment to the workpiece <b>19</b>. Such treatment may, for example, smooth out or minimize the ridge <b>77</b>.

0053The tool <b>10</b> may be used to grasp a workpiece <b>19</b> having an irregularly shaped outer diameter <b>79</b> as the working surfaces <b>21</b>, <b>23</b> conform generally to the shape of the outer diameter <b>79</b>. It is not necessary that the working surfaces <b>21</b>, <b>23</b> conform exactly to the shape of the outer diameter <b>79</b>. As can be appreciated from the figures, generally cylindrically shaped working surfaces <b>21</b>, <b>23</b> can snugly grasp a workpiece <b>19</b> having an irregularly shaped diameter <b>79</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>a. </i>Similarly, otherwise irregularly shaped workpieces may be grasped with a tool having otherwise shaped workpiece contacting surface members as described above.

0054<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7</figref><i>a </i>and <b>7</b><i>b </i>illustrate perspective views of a workpiece <b>19</b> having a gash <b>21</b> in the surface thereof. Further, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref><i>a </i>illustrates a workpiece <b>19</b> having an irregularly shaped outer diameter <b>79</b>. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 through 4</figref>, the clamping tool <b>10</b> may be used to apply a treatment <b>17</b> over the gash <b>21</b> of the workpiece <b>19</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 8</figref><i>a </i>through <b>8</b><i>c </i>illustrate a treatment <b>17</b> placed over the gash <b>21</b> of the workpiece <b>19</b>. The treatment <b>17</b> shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 8</figref><i>a </i>through <b>8</b><i>c </i>is a collar. The collar may, for example, include a patch element. The patch element is designed such that it bonds securely to the workpiece <b>19</b> and seals the gash <b>21</b>. Alternatively, other treatments such as heating, melting, joining, sealing, severing, compressing, deposition of a like or different material, etc. may be applied to the workpiece <b>19</b> by the clamping tool <b>10</b>.

0055<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 through 5</figref> illustrate the application of the treatment <b>17</b> to the workpiece <b>19</b>, from being carried into place by the tool and compressed around the workpiece <b>19</b>.

0056In some embodiments, the workpiece contacting surfaces <b>21</b>, <b>23</b> of the tool <b>10</b> may be adapted to deliver a chemical treatment or patch to a workpiece. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> illustrates various structures for delivering a treatment to a workpiece. A gel or patch <b>80</b> may be provided on the working surface <b>21</b> of either or both movable jaws <b>20</b>, <b>22</b>. A quick release coating, easy release type adhesive, or other to deliver or apply a chemical or other treatment to a workpiece may be provided.

0057Alternatively, or additionally, the tool <b>10</b> may include structures, such as wires <b>84</b>, shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 5</figref> for delivering electricity, heat or other forms of energy to the too, portions thereof, the workpiece and/or a patch by carrying suitable internal or external heating or energy producing and/or transmitting elements. Thus, wires <b>84</b> may b used to deliver heat to the working surfaces of the tool. The working surfaces may become warm and subsequently warm the workpiece. Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6</figref><i>a </i>and <b>6</b><i>b, </i>the malleability of the workpiece <b>19</b> may be increased due to the warmth delivered via the wires <b>84</b>. The working surfaces <b>21</b>, <b>22</b> may be used to compress the workpiece <b>19</b> in the area of the ridge <b>77</b> to minimize the ridge <b>77</b>. The malleability of the workpiece <b>19</b> due to the warmth enhances the tool's ability to minimize the ridge <b>77</b>. Alternately, the tool <b>10</b> may be used to minimize the ridge <b>77</b> without application of heat or other energy to the workpiece <b>19</b>.

0058Further, the tool <b>10</b> may be provided with sensors, e.g., shown at <b>82</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, to measure and/or display the amount of pressure, heat or other treatment being applied to a workpiece. Alternatively, sensors <b>82</b> may be provided for measuring other characteristics.

0059<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> illustrates one embodiment a treatment delivery structure in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention. The working surface <b>21</b> of a jaw, here the first jaw <b>20</b>, is provided with a recess or relieved region <b>86</b>. The relieved region <b>86</b> may be adapted to receive a chemical, in liquid, solid, or semi-solid form, to be applied to a workpiece. The relieved region <b>86</b> may extend over substantially the entire working surface of the jaw or may extend over only a portion of the working surface of the jaw.

0060The relieved region <b>86</b> may be surrounded by heating elements <b>87</b>, which may also take the form of treatment elements, e.g., sonic horns. The selected types of elements <b>87</b> may alternately underlie or be adjacent to the relieved region <b>86</b>. Also, in some embodiments, the elements <b>87</b> may be used in a jaw without a relieved region <b>86</b> in conjunction with a material to be applied to a workpiece <b>19</b>. The elements <b>87</b> may be arranged in any suitable pattern depending on the treatment effect desired. Further, a single element <b>87</b> may be arranged under substantially all of the working surface of the jaw.

0061Various mechanisms may be employed to translate a rotational movement of the handle <b>16</b> into a force that extends and retracts the adjusting links <b>44</b>, <b>46</b>. Further, a rotational movement of the handle <b>16</b> is not necessary in accordance with the present invention. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> illustrates one example of a mechanism to translate a rotational movement of the handle into a force that extends and retracts the adjusting links. Thus, a clamping tool <b>10</b> is shown wherein a threaded rod <b>64</b> is provided within a bearing assembly <b>60</b> that is coupled with extension tube <b>14</b>. The threaded rod <b>64</b> need only have threads over a portion of the rod and is coupled at one end with the handle <b>16</b>. The threaded rod <b>64</b> passes through a threaded nut <b>66</b>, so that rotational movement is translated into linear movement. The threaded rod <b>64</b> is coupled with a slider <b>62</b>. The slider <b>62</b> is pivotably connected to both the adjusting links <b>44</b>, <b>46</b> at couplings <b>70</b>, <b>72</b> respectively. Thus, when threaded rod <b>64</b> is rotated within threaded nut <b>66</b>, linear motion results, causing the slider <b>62</b> to move axially relative to the clamp base <b>18</b>; that is, parallel to the longitudinal axis of the extension tube <b>14</b> (up or down as illustrated). As it moves down it moves the actuating links <b>44</b>, <b>46</b> out of the clamp assembly <b>12</b>. This motion causes the jaws <b>17</b> to open, as previously described. As the slider <b>62</b> is moved up, the adjusting links <b>44</b>, <b>46</b> are pulled into the clamp assembly <b>12</b>. This causes the jaws <b>17</b> to close. Because the adjusting links <b>44</b>, <b>46</b> are pivotably coupled between the slider <b>62</b> and the jaws <b>17</b>, they come together within clamp assembly <b>12</b>. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>, movable jaws <b>17</b> comprise a mandrel block and a rotating sleeve. Alternatively, the clamping tool of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> may be configured with first and second movable jaws as described in relation to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>. Further, the first and second movable jaws may be provided with working surfaces generally conforming to a workpiece.

0062<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> illustrates a handle <b>16</b> as it is coupled to the threaded rod <b>64</b> in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Suitable mechanisms other than threaded structures may be used to operate the tool of the present invention. For example, as known to those skilled in the art, a ratchet arrangement or a rack and pinion system may alternately be used. In a threaded arrangement, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>, an angled bar <b>82</b> may be attached to the extension tube <b>14</b>. The angled bar <b>82</b> includes a lower locking hole <b>84</b> that can be aligned with an upper locking hole <b>86</b> bored through handle <b>16</b>. When the two holes <b>84</b>, <b>86</b> are aligned a locking member such as a padlock or any securing member can be passed through both holes <b>84</b>, <b>86</b> and essentially lock the clamping tool <b>10</b>. When the clamping tool <b>10</b> is locked after a pipe has been sealed, the lock will prevent the clamping tool <b>10</b> from accidentally or unintentionally being opened. Of course, other suitable handle assemblies may be used with clamping tools in accordance with the present invention.

0063Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, persons skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.